Course Overview

This syllabus outlines the structure, content, and policies for DMTH 0100: Introductory Algebra. The course is designed to provide foundational algebra skills necessary for further study in mathematics and related fields. It covers essential topics in algebra, including real numbers, equations, polynomials, and introductory statistics and probability.

Course Description and Objectives

• Credits: 3

• Contact Hours: 64

• Modality: Standard (in-person and online components)

• Prerequisites: Math Level 1 or Level 2 (Algebra) Placement

• Corequisite: NCBM 0100 - BASE Math Lab

Course Outcomes:

• Apply algebraic reasoning to manipulate expressions and equations to solve real-world problems.

• Construct and use mathematical models in verbal, algebraic, graphical, and tabular form.

• Define, represent, and perform operations on real numbers.

• Solve problems involving ratios, rates, percentages, and proportions.

• Communicate mathematical concepts using appropriate symbolic notation and vocabulary.

• Analyze and interpret data using graphs, tables, and technology.

Major Topics and Modules

The course is organized into modules, each focusing on a key area of beginning and intermediate algebra. Below is a summary of the main topics, aligned with the course schedule and assignments.

Module 1: Integers and Algebraic Foundations

• Introduction to Integers

• Adding, Subtracting, Multiplying, and Dividing Integers

• Exponents and Order of Operations

• Variables and Mathematical Models

• Solving Equations using Addition and Multiplication Properties of Equality

Example: To solve , subtract 5 from both sides: .

Module 2: Fractions and Rational Numbers

• Introduction to Fractions and Mixed Numbers

• Factors, Prime Factorizations, Simplest Form of a Fraction

• Solving Equations with Fractions

• Multiplying and Dividing Fractions

• Adding and Subtracting Fractions

• Rules of Exponents

• Order of Operations with Fractions

Example: To add , find a common denominator: .

Module 3: Decimals

• Introduction to Decimals

• Operations with Decimals (Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division)

• Order of Operations and Modeling with Decimals

Example:

Module 4: Percents

• Percents, Decimals, and Fractions

• Solve Percent and Interest Problems

Example: 20% of 50 is .

Module 5: Linear Equations and Inequalities

• Real Numbers and Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

• Addition and Multiplication Properties of Equalities

• Solving Linear Equations

• Using Formulas and Problem Solving

Example: Solve : Add 7 to both sides, , then divide by 3, .

Module 6: Graphing Linear Equations in Two Variables

• Graphing Linear Equations

• Slope-Intercept and Point-Slope Forms

Key Formulas:

• Slope-Intercept Form:

• Point-Slope Form:

Example: The line with slope 2 passing through (1,3):

Module 7: Statistics and Probability (Introductory)

• Sampling and Frequency Distributions

• Measures of Central Tendency (Mean, Median, Mode)

• Introduction to Probability

Example: The mean of 2, 4, 6 is .

Module 8: Polynomials and Factoring

• Adding and Subtracting Polynomials

• Multiplying and Dividing Polynomials

• Factoring Polynomials

Key Formulas:

• Product of Binomials:

• Factoring Quadratics: where and are roots

Example: Factor

Grading Policy

Course Resources

• Textbook: Developmental Mathematics (Robert Blizer, Pearson)

• Calculator: TI-30XS MultiView, TI 36X Pro, or equivalent

• Software: MyLab Math, Canvas LMS, Microsoft 365 or Google Apps

Support Services

• Disability Services and Accommodations

• Advising and Advocacy

• Counseling and Mental Health

• Library and Tutoring Services

• Testing Center and Proctoring

• Career Services

Course Policies

• Academic Integrity: Cheating, plagiarism, and use of AI-generated submissions are strictly prohibited.

• Attendance and Participation: Regular attendance and active participation are required.

• Assignment Submission: All work must be submitted electronically in the required format.

• Late Work: 20% penalty for late submissions; strict deadlines for assessments.

• Communication: Use official TSTC MyMail for all course correspondence.

Module and Assignment Schedule (Summary)

Additional Info

• This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, expectations, and resources. For detailed lesson content, refer to the course textbook and MyLab Math platform.

• Students are encouraged to utilize all available support services and communicate regularly with the instructor for success in the course.